The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has assured candidates seeking admission into the institution via its Open Distance eLearning mode that they will receive equal treatment as their counterparts on the main campus.
He stated that distance learning students receive the same certificate as on-campus students upon completion of their programs and are also eligible for NYSC service, just like students in the regular mode.
While addressing journalists at the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre in Ibadan, Adebowale noted that admission seekers can take advantage of either the traditional physical classroom mode, which requires UTME, or the flexible learning opportunities offered by the UIDLC, which combines both online and offline options but does not require UTME.
ALSO READ: Bauchi govt to revitilise six boarding schools — Commissioner
Adebowale’s assurance reinforces UI’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their mode of study. “There will be no distinction between DLC students and their counterparts on the main campus; they will have access to the same quality of education, resources, and opportunities,” he said.
He clarified that the physical classroom mode has a limited capacity due to infrastructure constraints, necessitating the use of JAMB UTME and POST UTME to select from eligible candidates, ensuring that classes are not overcrowded.
Adebowale further noted, “Conversely, our Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) mode leverages virtual technology to deliver the curriculum by the same lecturers to students regardless of their location. While the physical classroom mode is confined by spatial limitations, the ODeL mode offers a virtual, open, and borderless learning environment, taught by the same esteemed UI lecturers.”
In his remarks, the Director of UI DLC, Professor Babatunde Omobowale, stated that the Centre has expanded access to quality education for working professionals, entrepreneurs, and those in remote areas. According to him, the UI ODeL has become a beacon of hope for those seeking higher education despite physical or logistical constraints.
He emphasized that UI DLC remains part of UI, adding that one of the advantages of ODeL is that candidates do not need to sit for UTME to gain admission to the University of Ibadan. He said, “If anyone did not write UTME, they can come and sit for our examination; if they pass, then they will be admitted into the University.”
He urged candidates who have taken UTME and scored 40 or above but did not meet the cut-off to consider switching their mode of study to UI-ODeL.
